Dismissal of Teaching Hospital CEOs not vindictive – Thomas Anabah

Dr. Thomas Anabah, former Medical Director of Ridge Hospital, has spoken out. He is also the Member of Parliament for Garu. He dismissed claims that recent CEO removals from teaching hospitals are politically motivated.

The Mahama administration recently replaced CEOs at three major hospitals. These include Tamale Teaching Hospital, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, and Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Dr. Anabah addressed these allegations in an interview on Citi Eyewitness News.

He stated, “I wouldn’t say it is vindictive.” He noted that if a minister fires someone, they can respond appropriately. Dr. Anabah acknowledged that political factors often affect public sector appointments.

However, he emphasized that the recent dismissals were due to serious concerns. For example, he mentioned a patient’s death at Tamale Teaching Hospital due to equipment shortages. The CEO publicly acknowledged this issue.

Dr. Anabah criticized the CEO's leadership during this crisis. He described a situation where the CEO stood by while staff argued with a minister. “Even if the minister was wrong,” he said, “the CEO should have handled it better.”

He also pointed out the CEO's complaints about basic infrastructure issues at the hospital. “Who should bring water?” he asked rhetorically. The CEO is responsible for managing the hospital and cannot expect the minister to provide basic needs.

Regarding Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Dr. Anabah suggested political affiliations influenced decisions there as well. He noted clear examples of political ties in Kumasi related to one of the CEOs involved.

In conclusion, Dr. Anabah believes politics plays a significant role in hospital management in Ghana.